Methods for exchanging messages and managing messages, terminal and messaging server

ABSTRACT

Communication by messages such as provided by the mobile telephony standard, Rich Communication Services (RCS), is described. A method for exchanging messages implemented by a user terminal capable of transmitting a message via one of a first network and a second network is described, the method including, when the terminal of the user is in a second transmission mode for a contact terminal, triggering a failover of the user terminal in a first transmission mode for the contact terminal, as soon as a notification is received at the terminal of the user of connecting to the first network of the contact terminal coming from a messaging server on the first network. Thus, returning to using the first network by the user terminal only depends on one single message: the connection notification, and the exchanges for determining the capacities of the terminal of the contact are reduced, since this notification is only sent when the connection of the contact terminal to the first network is effective.

The invention relates to communication by messages. In particular, theinvention relates to communication by messages such as is provided forby the RCS (Rich Communication Services) mobile telephone standard.

One of the services proposed by the RCS mobile telephone standard isenriched messaging or “rich messaging”. This messaging service allowsusers to exchange text or multimedia messages. By default, the RCSstandard, like other instant messaging services, is based on the IPprotocol requiring a connection on a data network or data connectivity.

The main drawback of this type of messaging for users of mobiletelephones, smartphones . . . is that the connection to the data networkis often fluctuating because of the roaming character of the terminalsused to access the over-IP messaging service. For example, when aterminal of a user A sends an IP message to a terminal of a user B, ifthe telephone of the recipient B of the IP message is not connected tothe data network, the terminal of the recipient B will not receive theIP message which is intended for it. This is why the RCS standardprovides for a storage and transfer functionality, termed “Store &Forward” in English, which allows the messaging server of the datanetwork to preserve the IP message until the telephone of the recipientB retrieves data coverage, that is to say that it reconnects to the datanetwork. The messaging server will then push the preserved IP message tothe telephone of the recipient B.

The “Store & Forward” function therefore makes it possible to alleviatefluctuating network coverages but not the absence of access to the datanetwork for a lengthy period (deactivation of the use of the datanetwork, in particular when “roaming”, that is to say when the terminalof the recipient B uses the network of a partner operator of theoperator with which it has subscribed, for example abroad). Indeed, evenif the terminal of the recipient B recovers the IP message which wasintended for it after this lengthy period, the proposed messaging losesits interest since it loses its so-called “instant” character.Accordingly, the RCS standard has provided for a fallback mode: theexchanging of the messages by SMS therefore using a fallback network, inthis instance the mobile telephone network or cellular network. Thus,when the IP message sent by the terminal of the user A is nottransmitted to the terminal of the user B since the latter is notconnected to the data network, the terminal of the user of A re-sendsthe message in SMS form to the terminal of the user B. The terminal ofthe user A has then toggled into SMS mode of transmission for theterminal of the user B. To prevent the terminal of the user A fromcontinuing to send the messages in SMS form even when the terminal ofthe user B has reconnected to the data network, the RCS standard hasprovided for verification of the connection of the terminal of the userB by polling. Thus, the terminal of the user A in SMS mode oftransmission for a terminal of a user B, verifies the IP connectivity ofthe terminal of the user B. Accordingly, the two terminals perform anexchange of the capabilities between IP terminals by messages predefinedby the RCS standard, termed “SIP OPTIONS”, and an analysis of thereplies. The drawback of the polling procedure is that it consumesresources.

The current policy of combining IP instant messaging or chat servicesand SMS (so-called “messaging”) services according to the RCS standardis based on the following principles:

-   -   Use of the chat as default messaging service to a terminal of        the contact B having previously been discovered as supporting        RCS services;    -   Fallback to SMS for communications by messages with the terminal        of the contact B provided that a Chat message or IP message has        not been able to be delivered to the terminal of the user B by        using the IP network with revocation of the message of the        “Store & Forward” base to avoid any message doubleton;    -   When fallback is activated, use of the SIP OPTIONS messages or        of any other event manifesting a return under IP connectivity of        the terminal of the user B (for example, reception of a Chat        message originating from the terminal of the user B, etc.) to        determine when the return to the nominal Chat service can be        performed. This policy makes it possible to optimize the use of        the SIP OPTIONS messages but the latter nonetheless remain        indispensable.

One of the aims of the present invention is to afford improvements withrespect to the prior art.

A subject of the invention is a method for exchanging messagesimplemented by a terminal of a user able to transmit a message via anetwork from among: a first network and a second network, the method forexchanging messages comprises, when the terminal of the user is in asecond mode of transmission for a terminal of a contact, a triggering ofa toggling of the terminal of the user into a first mode of transmissionfor the terminal of the contact upon receipt of a notification, to theterminal of the user, of connection to the first network of the terminalof the contact originating from a messaging server on the first network.Thus, the return to the use of the first network by the terminal of theuser depends only on a single message: the notification of connection.The exchanges for determining the capabilities of the terminal of thecontact are thus reduced since this notification is sent solely when theconnection of the terminal of the contact to the first network iseffective. The invention therefore makes it possible to reduce the useof resources.

Advantageously, the toggling is performed subsequent to a detection, bythe messaging server, of connection of the terminal of the contact tothe first network. Thus, the return to the use of the first network bythe terminal of the user does not depend on the periodic sending ofqueries about the capabilities of the terminal of the contact and on theanalysis by the terminal of the user of a reply of the terminal of thecontact, in particular during a polling procedure, but on a detection ofconnection by the messaging server. The invention therefore makes itpossible to reduce the use of the resources of the terminals and of thefirst network.

Advantageously, the first network is a data network and the secondnetwork is a circuit network. Thus, the exchanges of messages are fasterby virtue of the data network used as default network and the securerfallback network in terms of connectivity for the roaming terminals.

A subject of the invention is also a communication device forcommunicating messages of a terminal of a user, the communication deviceable to transmit a message via a network from among: a first network anda second network, the communication device comprising a controller ableto trigger, on receipt of a notification to the terminal of the user ofconnection to the first network of a terminal of a contact originatingfrom a messaging server on the first network, a toggling of the terminalof the user into a first mode of transmission for the terminal of thecontact, when the terminal of the user is in a second mode oftransmission for a terminal of a contact.

A subject of the invention is further a terminal of a user comprising adevice for communicating messages able to transmit a message via anetwork from among: a first network and a second network, the terminalof the user comprising a controller able to trigger, on receipt of anotification to the terminal of the user of connection to the firstnetwork of a terminal of a contact originating from a messaging serveron the first network, a toggling of the terminal of the user into afirst mode of transmission for the terminal of the contact, when theterminal of the user is in a second mode of transmission for a terminalof a contact.

A subject of the invention is also a method for managing messagesimplemented by a messaging server on a first network, the method formanaging messages comprises, when a terminal of a user is in a secondmode of transmission for a terminal of a contact, a sending to theterminal of the user of a notification of connection to the firstnetwork of the terminal of the contact, the notification of connectiontriggering a toggling of the terminal of the user into a first mode oftransmission for the terminal of the contact. Thus, the return to theuse of the first network by the terminal of the user depends only on asingle message: the notification of connection. Thus, the exchanges fordetermining the capabilities of the terminal of the contact are reducedsince this notification being sent solely when the connection of theterminal of the contact to the first network is effective. The inventiontherefore makes it possible to reduce the use of resources.

Advantageously, the method for managing messages comprises, when aterminal of a user is in a second mode of transmission for a terminal ofa contact, a detection of a connection to the first network of theterminal of the contact, subsequent to which the sending of thenotification of connection is performed. Thus, the return to the use ofthe first network by the terminal of the user does not depend on theperiodic sending of queries about the capabilities of the terminal ofthe contact and on the analysis by the terminal of the user of a replyof the terminal of the contact, in particular during a pollingprocedure, but on a detection of connection by the messaging server. Theinvention therefore makes it possible to reduce the use of the resourcesof the terminals and of the first network.

Advantageously, the detection of connection to the first network of theterminal of the contact comprises a detection of a message originatingfrom the terminal of the contact via the first network. Thus, anymessage on the first network originating from the terminal of thecontact detected by the messaging server, regardless of the type ofmessage and the recipient of the message, will trigger the toggling intothe first mode of transmission of the terminal of the user for messageexchange with the terminal of the contact.

Advantageously, the detection of connection to the first network of theterminal of the contact comprises a detection of a reception by themessaging server of a control message for deleting a message stored onthe messaging server, the control message originating from the terminalof the contact. Thus, an attempted message send on the first network ofthe terminal of the contact to a terminal of an interlocutor which isdetected by the messaging server of the terminal of the user willtrigger the toggling into the first mode of transmission of the terminalof the user for message exchange with the terminal of the contact.

Advantageously, the method for managing messages comprises, when aterminal of a user is in a second mode of transmission for a terminal ofa contact, a generation of a notification of connection to the firstnetwork of a terminal of a contact of a terminal of a user, thegeneration of the notification of connection providing the notificationof connection generated on the sending to the terminal of the user.Thus, the notification of connection sent will be able to be dependenton the terminal of the contact and/or on the terminal of the user.

Advantageously, the generation of notification of connection istriggered by an event relating to a connection to the first network ofthe terminal of the contact from among:

-   -   The detection of connection to the first network of the terminal        of the contact;    -   A toggling into a second mode of transmission of the terminal of        the user for the terminal of the contact.

In the first case, the triggering of the generation by the detection ofconnection, the sending will be able to be triggered indirectly by thedetection of connection on receiving the notification of connectiongenerated on command of this detection of connection. Thus, thenotification generated will not have to be preserved before its sending.Furthermore, in the case of the first option if the terminal of the useris not connected to the first network during this detection and thesecond option: toggling into the second mode of transmission, thenotification of connection will be able to be generated in a mannernon-concomitant with its sending. This makes it possible to reduce thelatency between the detection of the connection of the terminal of thecontact to the first network and the toggling of the terminal of theuser into the first mode of transmission for the terminal of thecontact.

Advantageously, an implementation of the sending of the notification isdependent on a state of connection to the first network of the terminalof the user. Thus, if the terminal of the user is not connected to thefirst network at the moment when the connection to the first network ofthe terminal of the contact is detected, the notification is not sentimmediately but only as soon as the terminal of the user will bereconnected to the first network avoiding information loss and thereforethe preservation of the terminal of the user in the second mode oftransmission for the contact terminal. Advantageously, according to animplementation of the invention, the various steps of the methodsaccording to the invention are implemented by software or a computerprogram, this software comprising software instructions intended to beexecuted by a data processor of a device forming part of a terminal of auser or of a messaging server and being designed to control theexecution of the various steps of these methods. The invention thereforealso envisages a program comprising program code instructions for theexecution of the steps of the method for exchanging messages, and/or ofthe method for managing messages when said program is executed by aprocessor. This program can use any programming language and be in theform of source code, object code or code intermediate between sourcecode and object code such as in a partially compiled form or in anyother desirable form.

A subject of the invention is further a messaging server of a firstnetwork comprising a sender making it possible to send, when a terminalof a user is in a second mode of transmission for a terminal of acontact, to the terminal of the user a notification of connection to thefirst network of the terminal of the contact, the notification ofconnection triggering a toggling of the terminal of the user into afirst mode of transmission for the terminal of the contact.

Advantageously, the messaging server comprises a detector of connectionto the first network of a terminal of a contact able to trigger asending by the sender of the notification of connection.

The characteristics and advantages of the invention will become moreclearly apparent on reading the description, given by way of example,and the figures pertaining thereto which represent:

FIGS. 1a and 1 b, charts of exchange of messages implementing the RCSstandard in the case where the terminal of the user is, respectivelyconnected and disconnected to the first network when the terminal of acontact reconnects to the first network, according to the prior art,

FIG. 2, a simplified diagram of a method for exchanging messagesimplemented by a terminal of a user according to the invention,

FIG. 3, a simplified diagram of a method for managing messagesimplemented by a messaging server according to the invention,

FIG. 4, a message communication architecture implementing a terminal ofa user and a messaging server according to the invention,

FIG. 5, a message exchange chart in the case where the terminal of theuser is disconnected from the first network when the terminal of acontact reconnects to the first network, according to the invention,

FIG. 6, a message exchange chart in the case where the messaging serverof the terminal of the user detected a message on the first network ofthe terminal of a contact, according to the invention.

FIGS. 1a and 1b illustrate the prior art. In particular, in the case ofthe use of the RCS standard without the SIP OPTIONS. FIG. 1a illustratesa message exchange chart implementing the RCS standard in the case wherethe terminal of the user is connected to the first network when theterminal of a contact reconnects to the first network, according to theprior art.

In order to limit the use of the resources, in particular through theexchanges of capabilities of the terminals, in particular through theusage of the SIP OPTIONS such as provided for by the RCS standard, whileavoiding blocking a terminal of a user in a fallback mode oftransmission, the RCS standard provides that the reception by theterminal of a user of a message of the terminal of the contact via thefirst network triggers the return of the terminal of the user into amode of transmission using this first network for the terminal of thecontact.

FIG. 1a shows a terminal of a user TU exchanging messages: mssg1, mssg2,mssg3, mssg4 with a terminal of a contact TC. The RCS standard providesthat a first network is used as default network for messagetransmission: the IP network and that a second network as fallbacknetwork: SMS network. Thus, the RCS terminals are, by default, in afirst mode of transmission MT=MT1 allowing message sending via the firstnetwork. Thus, in a first stage Ph I as shown by the example of FIG. 1a, the terminal of the user TU sends to the terminal of a contact TC afirst message mssg1 on the default network: the first network, snd1(mssg1).

The terminal of the contact TC not being connected to the first network:TC≠cnx₁, the messaging server of the terminal of the contact SM_(c)receives the first message mssg1 and stores it in particular in atemporary memory or a message database BDD_MSSG with a view totransferring it to the terminal of the contact when it becomes connectedagain to the first network. The terminal of the user TU then triggers acountdown of a predetermined time span on the expiry of which, if thefirst message mssg1 has not been transmitted by the messaging serverSM_(c) to the terminal of the contact TC, the terminal of the user TUsends a revocation of the transfer of the first message to the messagingserver SM_(c): Revoke(mssg1). Thus, the first message mssg1 is deletedfrom the memory BDD_MSSG of the messaging server SM_(c). Concomitantly,the terminal of the user TU toggles into a second mode of transmissionfor the terminal of the contact MT(tc)=MT2, and then retransmits thefirst message via the second network (this time): send2(mssg 1), in thisinstance in SMS form. When the terminal of the user TU sends a secondmessage mssg2 destined for the terminal of the contact TC, it still doesso on the second network: send2(mssg 2) since the terminal of the useris still in the second mode of transmission for the terminal of thecontact MT(tc)=MT2.

In a second stage Ph IIa, the terminal of the contact has reconnected tothe first network TC=cnx₁. If, as shown by FIG. 1 a, the terminal of thecontact TC sends on the default network, namely the first network, athird message to the terminal of the user TU: snd1(mssg 3), then the RCSstandard provides that the reception of this third message originatingfrom the terminal of the contact TC on the first network triggers thereturn of the terminal of the user into the first mode of transmissionfor the terminal of the contact: MT(tc)=MT1. Thus, the sending by theterminal of the user TU of a fourth message to the terminal of thecontact TC will be done using the first network: send1(mssg 4).

FIG. 1b illustrates a message exchange chart implementing the RCSstandard in the case where the terminal of the user is disconnected fromthe first network when the terminal of a contact reconnects to the firstnetwork, according to the prior art. The first phase Ph I, notillustrated, corresponds to that of FIG. 1 a.

In a second stage Ph IIb, the terminal of the contact has reconnected tothe first network TC=cnx₁. As shown by FIG. 1 b, the terminal of thecontact TC sends on the default network, namely the first network, athird message to the terminal of the user TU: snd1(mssg 3). If at thatmoment, the terminal of the user TU is disconnected from the firstnetwork TU≠cnx₁, then the third message will not be remitted to theterminal of the user TU via the first network. The terminal of the userTU not being connected to the first network: TU≠cnx₁, the messagingserver of the terminal of the user SM_(U) receives the third messagemssg3 and stores it in particular in a temporary memory or a messagedatabase BDD_MSSG with a view to transferring it to the terminal of theuser TU when it becomes connected again to the first network. Theterminal of the contact TC then triggers a countdown of a predeterminedtime span on the expiry of which, if the third message mssg3 has notbeen transmitted by the messaging server SM_(U) to the terminal of theuser TU, the terminal of the contact TC sends a revocation of thetransfer of the third message to the messaging server SM_(U):Revoke(mssg3). Thus, the third message mssg3 is deleted from the memoryBDD_MSSG of the messaging server SM_(U). Concomitantly, the terminal ofthe contact TC toggles into a second mode of transmission for theterminal of the user MT(tu)=MT2, and then retransmits the third messagevia the second network (this time): send2(mssg 3), in this instance inSMS form.

If the terminal of the user TU then retrieves its coverage by the firstnetwork, that is to say if it is again connected to the first network,then, unless it has received information via the SIP OPTIONS messagesprovided for by the RCS standard, the terminal of the user is blocked inthe second mode of transmission MT(tc)=MT2 and will transmit a fourthmessage using the second network:send2(mssg 4) whilst both terminals:the terminal of the user TU and the terminal of the contact TC areconnected to the first network. Thus, if, to reduce the use of theresources, the use of the SIP OPTIONS that is provided for by the RCSstandard is deleted, the risk is that the terminals remain blocked inthe fallback mode of transmission in certain situations.

FIG. 2 illustrates a simplified diagram of a method for exchangingmessages implemented by a terminal of a user according to the invention.The method for exchanging messages PEM comprises, when the terminal ofthe user is in a second mode of transmission for a terminal of acontact, a triggering of a toggling SWT_TRG of the terminal of the userinto a first mode of transmission for the terminal of the contactMT(tc)=MT1 upon receipt of a notification to the terminal of the user ofconnection to the first network N1 of the terminal of the contacttc_cnx1_ntf originating from a messaging server on the first networkSM_(U).

In particular, the triggering of the toggling SWT_TRG is performedsubsequent to a detection, by the messaging server SM_(U), of connectionof the terminal of the contact TC to the first network N1. Inparticular, the first network N1 is a data network, in particular an IPnetwork and the second network N2 a circuit network, in particular acellular network. In particular, the triggering of toggling SWT_TRGsends a command for modifying the mode of transmission for the terminalof the contact mt_mdf(tc), in particular to a contact database BDDC, inwhich the mode of transmission for each terminal of a contact is storedat least when the mode of transmission is the fallback mode oftransmission, namely the second mode of transmission. If relevant, themethod of exchange comprises, when sending a message to a terminal of acontact, a consultation of the contact database BDDC making it possibleto determine the mode of transmission of the message to the terminal ofthe contact.

When transmitting a message to a terminal of a contact, the message isprovided by default on sending according to a first mode oftransmission, that is to say using the first network N1. The method forexchanging messages comprises in particular, this sending of the messageaccording to the first mode of transmission. In particular, when theterminal of the contact TC is not connected to the first network N1, themessage mssg is provided on sending according to a second mode oftransmission MT2_TR, that is to say using the second network N2. Theprovision of the message on sending according to the second mode oftransmission is performed by a switching CMT of the provision of themessage from the sending according to the first mode of transmissionMT1_TR to the sending according to the second mode of transmissionMT2_TR as a function of a mode of transmission associated with theterminal of the recipient contact for the message MT(tc).

In particular, the method for exchanging messages comprises a detectionDCNX1_DTCT by the terminal of the user TU that the terminal of thecontact TC is not connected to the first network N1, in particular by:

-   -   absence of receipt of a notification of acknowledgment of        receipt ACK, also termed notification of delivery, of the        message by the terminal of the contact TC which enables the        terminal of the user TU to know that the terminal of the contact        TC is not connected to the first network N1,    -   receipt NACK of an item of information in respect of        non-delivery to the terminal of the contact TC of a message sent        by the terminal of the user TU via the first network N1

In particular, the triggering of toggling SWT_TRG sends the transmissionmode modification command mt_mdf(tc) to the message provision switchingCMT which then toggles from message provision on sending according tothe second mode of transmission MT2_TR to sending according to the firstmode of transmission MT1_TR for the sending of a message destined forthe terminal of the contact TC. A particular embodiment of the methodfor exchanging messages is a program comprising program codeinstructions for the execution of the steps of the method for exchangingmessages according to any of the claims when said program is executed bya processor.

FIG. 3 illustrates a simplified diagram of a method for managingmessages implemented by a messaging server according to the invention.The method for managing messages PGM comprises, when a terminal of auser TU is in a second mode of transmission MT2 for a terminal of acontact TC, a sending SND to the terminal of the user TU of anotification of connection to the first network of the terminal of thecontact tc_cnx1_ntf, the notification of connection tc_cnx1_ntftriggering a toggling SWT_TRG of the terminal of the user TU into afirst mode of transmission MT1 for the terminal of the contact TC. Inparticular, the method for managing messages PGM comprises, when aterminal of a user is in a second mode of transmission for a terminal ofa contact, a detection of a connection to the first network of theterminal of the contact TC_CNX1_DTCT, subsequent to which the sending ofthe notification of connection SND is performed. In particular, thedetection of connection to the first network of the terminal of thecontact TC_CNX1_DTCT comprises a detection MSSG_(TC) _(_)DTCT of amessage mssg originating from the terminal of the contact TC via thefirst network N1. In particular, the detection of connection to thefirst network of the terminal of the contact TC_CNX1_DTCT comprises adetection MSSG_(TC) _(_)DTCT of a reception by the messaging server SMof a control message for deleting a message stored on the messagingserver revoke_mssg, the control message revoke_mssg originating from theterminal of the contact TC. In particular, the method for managingmessages PGM comprises, when a terminal of a user is in a second mode oftransmission for a terminal of a contact, a generation NTF_(TU) _(_)GNof a notification of connection to the first network of a terminal of acontact tc_cnx1_ntf of a terminal of a user TU, the generation of thenotification of connection NTF_(TU) _(_)GN providing the notification ofconnection generated tc_cnx1_ntf on sending SND to the terminal of theuser TU. In particular, the generation of notification of connectionNTF_(TU) _(_)GN is triggered by an event relating to a connection to thefirst network Ni of the terminal of the contact TC from among:

-   -   The detection of connection to the first network of the terminal        of the contact TC_CNX1_DTCT;    -   A toggling CMT into a second mode of transmission MT2 of the        terminal of the user TU for the terminal of the contact TC.

The detection of connection to the first network of the terminal of thecontact TC_CNX1_DTCT makes it possible to detect an event relating to afirst connection or a reconnection of the terminal of the contact TC tothe first network such as:

-   -   A sending of a message on the first network by the terminal of        the contact to a terminal of an interlocutor of the contact;    -   A sending of a message of connection to the first network N1 by        the terminal of the contact, in particular a registration        message such as SIP REGISTER or Third REGISTER received by the        messaging servers SM of a control server S-CSCF (not        illustrated), in particular when the terminal of the user TU and        the terminal of the contact TC share the same messaging server        SM;    -   A sending of a message of deletion revoke_mssg of a message sent        by the terminal of the contact TC to the terminal of the user TU        on the first network N1;    -   A sending of a notification of connection of the terminal of the        contact to the first network by the messaging server of the        contact destined for the messaging server of the terminal of a        user, etc.

In particular, an implementation of the sending of the notification tothe terminal of the user SND_TU is dependent on a state of connection tothe first network of the terminal of the user TU_CNX₁?.

The sending SND of the notification tc_cnx1_ntf is performed when theterminal of the user TU is in a second mode of transmission MT2 for theterminal of the contact TC. In particular, the method for managingmessages PGM receives from the terminal of the user an item ofinformation indicating the toggling of the terminal of the user TU intothe second mode of transmission MT2 for the terminal of the contact TC.Alternatively, the method for managing messages PGM determines whetherthe terminal of the user TU is in a second mode of transmission MT2 forthe terminal of the contact TC. In particular, the method for managingmessages PGM comprises a detection of the toggling of the terminal ofthe user into the second mode of transmission TU_MT2_DTCT. For example,the detection of the toggling into the second mode of transmissionTU_MT2_DTCT comprises a detection REVOKE_DTCT of the messages ofrevocation or of deletion of the stored messages originating from theterminal of the user TU. Thus, the determination of the toggling intothe second of transmission MT2 of a terminal of a user TU for a terminalof a contact TC: receipt of a toggling information item, detection ofthe toggling TU_MT2_DTCT triggers trgTU(tc) a monitoring of the firstnetwork N1_MNT triggering the sending SND of a notification ofconnection to the first network of the terminal of the contacttc_cnx1_ntf. This monitoring of the first network N1_MNT comprises atleast a detection TC_CNX₁ _(_)DTCT of connection of the terminal of thecontact to the first network.

In particular, the determination of the toggling into the second mode oftransmission MT2 of a terminal of a user TU for a terminal of a contactTC: receipt of a toggling information item, detection of the togglingTU_MT2_DTCT triggers trgTU(tc) the generation of notification ofconnection NTF_(TU) _(_)GN, which itself triggers dtct_trg the detectionTC_CNX₁ _(_)DTCT of connection of the terminal of the contact to thefirst network. In this option, the lag between the connection to thefirst network of the terminal of the contact and the toggling of theterminal of the user into the first mode of connection for the terminalof the contact is optimized since reduced by the notification ofconnection NTF_(TU) _(_)GN generation time. In this case, it is thedetection TC_CNX₁ _(_)DTCT of connection of the terminal of the contactto the first network which directly or indirectly triggers snd_trg thesending SND to the terminal of the user TU of the notificationtc_cnx1_ntf provided by the generation of notification of connectionNTF_(TU) _(_)GN.

Alternatively, the determination of the toggling into the second mode oftransmission MT2 of a terminal of a user TU for a terminal of a contactTC: receipt of a toggling information item, detection of the togglingTU_MT2_DTCT triggers trgTU(tc) the detection TC_CNX₁ _(_)DTCT ofconnection of the terminal of the contact to the first network, whichitself triggers dtct_trg the generation of notification of connectionNTF_(TU) _(_)GN. Thus, the storage resources of the messaging server SMare optimized since the notification of connection tc_cnx₁ _(_)ntf isstored only if the terminal of the user TU is not connected to the firstnetwork Ni during the generation of the notification of connectionNTF_(TU) _(_)GN. In this case, it is the generation of notification ofconnection NTF_(TU) _(_)GN which provides the notification of connectiontc_cnx1_ntf and directly or indirectly triggers snd_trg its sending SNDto the terminal of the user TU.

In the case of an indirect triggering snd_trg of the sending SND, it isa sending to a terminal of a user SND_TU which is triggered snd_trgdirectly either by the detection of connection TC_CNX1_DTCT, or by thegeneration of notification of connection NTFTU_GN, or by the monitoringof the first network N1_MNT. In particular, the sending to the terminalof the user SND_TU comprises the sending SND of the notification ofconnection tc_cnx1_ntf to the terminal of the user TU. Optionally, thesending to the terminal of the user SND_TU comprises, furthermore, averification of the connection of the terminal of the user to the firstnetwork TU_CNX1?. If the connection of the terminal of the user to thefirst network TU_CNX1? is verified [Y], that is to say if the terminalof the user TU is connected to the first network N1, then theverification TU_CNX1? triggers snd_trg the sending SND to the terminalof the user TU of the notification of connection tc_cnx1_ntf provided bythe generation of notification of connection NTF_(TU) _(_)GN. If theconnection of the terminal of the user to the first network TU_CNX1? isnot verified [N], that is to say if the terminal of the user TU is notconnected to the first network N1, then the verification TU_CNX1?triggers a detection of connection of the terminal of the user to thefirst network TU_CNX1_DTCT. In particular, the reception by themessaging server of a message mssg originating from the terminal of theuser TU via the first network N1 makes it possible to detect such aconnection to the first network. The message is, for example, a messageof registration on the first network N1, such as SIP REGISTER. Thedetection of connection of the terminal of the user to the first networkTU_CNX1_DTCT triggers snd_trg the sending SND to the terminal of theuser TU of the notification of connection tc_cnx1_ntf provided by thegeneration of notification of connection NTF_(TU) _(_)GN, and optionallystored in a memory of the messaging server. In particular, themonitoring of the first network N1_MNT also comprises the verificationTU_CNX1? and, if the connection of the terminal of the user to the firstnetwork TU_CNX1? is not verified [N], the detection of connection of theterminal of the user to the first network TU_CNX1_DTCT.

An exemplary embodiment of the message management method could use, assending of notification of connection, the provision, also termed “push”function in English, of a method of storage and transfer implemented bythe messaging server, in particular the “store&forward” or “pushenabler” function such as provided for in certain standard: e.g. theRCS, OMA standard, etc. Thus, the provision or “push” function couldsent in addition to the messages stored by the messaging server, inparticular pending a reconnection of the terminal of the recipient, anew type of content namely the notifications tc_cnx1_nft of connectionof the contacts to the first network, such as are provided for by theinvention. Furthermore, if necessary, the storage of the method ofstorage and transfer implemented by the messaging server, in particularthe “store&forward” or “push enabler” function such as provided for incertain standard: e.g. the RCS, OMA standard, etc. will be able to beused to preserve the notification of connection generated by the messagemanagement method pending the triggering of the sending of thenotification of connection.

In the case where the terminal of the user TU and the terminal of thecontact TC do not share the same messaging server SM, the messagingserver of the terminal of the contact SM_(c) can implement a detectionof connection of the contact to the first network TC_CNX₁ _(_)DTCTtriggering a sending SND of a notification of connection of the terminalof the contact TC to the first network N1. The sending by the messagingserver of the contact SM_(c) to the first network is performed destinedfor the messaging server of the terminal of a user SM_(U) having toggledinto a second mode of transmission MT2 for the terminal of the contactTC. A reception by the messaging server of the terminal of the userSM_(U) of the notification of connection of the terminal of the contactto the first network tc_cnx1_ntf, tc_cnx1_ntf* constitutes, inparticular, the detection of connection of the terminal of the contactto the first network TC_CNX₁ _(_)DTCT by the messaging server of theterminal of the user SM_(U) triggering the sending SND, by the messagingserver of the terminal of the user SM_(U), of a notification ofconnection of the terminal of the contact to the first networktc_cnx1_ntf. The notification of connection tc_cnx1_ntf is sent by themessaging server of the terminal of the user SM_(U) destined for theterminal of the user TU triggering the toggling into the first mode oftransmission SWT_TRG of the terminal of the user TU for the terminal ofthe contact TC. In particular, either the messaging server of theterminal of the user SM_(U) relays the notification of connectionreceived tc_cnx1_ntf from the messaging server of the terminal of thecontact SM_(C), or the messaging server of the terminal of the userSM_(U) generates NTF_(TU) _(_)GN a new notification of connectiontc_cnx1_ntf subsequent to the receipt of the notification of connectionreceived tc_cnx1_ntf* from the messaging server of the terminal of thecontact SM_(c), also called inter-operator notification tc_cnx1_ntf*.

Note: the method for managing messages PGM can also be implemented bythe messaging server of the terminal of the contact SM_(c) (cf. FIGS. 5,6), and the method for exchanging messages PEM by the terminal of thecontact TC which then becomes the terminal of the user claimed. Thus,the description and the claims will be read while replacing the terminalof the user by the terminal of the contact and, conversely, the terminalof the contact by the terminal of the user.

A particular embodiment of the method for managing messages is a programcomprising program code instructions for the execution of the steps ofthe method for managing messages according to any of the claims whensaid program is executed by a processor.

FIG. 4 illustrates a message communication architecture implementing aterminal of a user and a messaging server according to the invention. Asubject of the invention is a device for communicating messages 11. Thedevice for communicating messages 11 is implemented in a terminal 1 of auser U. The communication device 11 transmits a message mssg via anetwork 3 ₁, 3 ₂ from among: a first network 3 ₁ and a second network 3₂. The communication device 11 comprises a controller 12 triggering cmd,on receipt of a notification tc_cnx1_ntf to the terminal of the user 1of connection to the first network of the terminal of the contactoriginating from a messaging server 4 on the first network 3 ₁, atoggling of the terminal of the user 1 into a first mode of transmissionMT1 for a terminal 2 of a contact C, when the terminal of the user 1 isin a second mode of transmission MT2 for the terminal of the contact 2.In particular, the device for communicating messages 11 comprises aswitch 111 making it possible to provide a message to a firsttransmitter 10 ₁, that is to say a transmitter on a first network, or asecond transmitter 10 ₂, that is to say a transmitter on a secondnetwork, as a function of the mode of transmission of the switch 111,respectively the first mode of transmission MT1 or the second mode oftransmission MT2. The controller 12 then commands cmd, on receipt of anotification tc_cnx1_ntf of connection to the first network of theterminal of the contact, the toggling of the switch 111 into a firstmode of transmission MT1 when sending a message destined for theterminal of the contact 2.

Optionally, the device for communicating messages 11 comprises a contactdatabase 12 (not illustrated). Either, are recorded, in this contactdatabase 12, at least the terminals of the contacts 2 when they are notconnected to the first network 3 ₁. In this case, the switch 111 is, bydefault, in the first mode of transmission, and consults, for theterminal of the contact 2 for which the message mssg is intended, thecontact database 12. If the terminal of the contact 2 is recorded in thebase 12, the switch 12 toggles into the second mode of transmission MT2.Then, on receipt of a notification tc_cnx1_ntf of connection to thefirst network of the terminal of the contact, the controller 12 commandscmd the deletion of the terminal of the contact 2 from the database 12,toggling the terminal of the user 1 into the first mode of transmissionfor the terminal of the contact 2. Thus, the switch 111 consulting, forthe terminal of the contact 2 for which a message mssg is intended, thecontact database 12 and not finding therein the terminal of the contact2, remains, by default, in the first mode of transmission MT1 for thesending of the message destined for the terminal of the contact 2. Or,are recorded, in this contact database 12, the terminals 2 of all thecontacts of the terminal of the user regardless of their connections,and for each terminal of a contact 2, a mode of transmission isassociated therewith: default, the first mode of transmission MT1 and,when the terminal of the contact 2 is not connected to the first network3 ₁, the second mode of transmission MT2. In this case, when theterminal of the user 1 is in a second mode of transmission for aterminal of a contact 2, that is to say when the mode of transmissionassociated with the terminal of the contact 2 is the second mode oftransmission MT2 in the contact database 12, on receipt of anotification tc_cnx1_ntf of connection to the first network of theterminal of the contact, the controller 12 commands cmd the modificationof the mode of transmission associated with the terminal of the contact2 in the database 12, toggling the terminal of the user 1 into the firstmode of transmission for the terminal of the contact 2. Thus, the switch111 consulting, for the terminal of the contact 2 for which a messagemssg is intended, the contact database 12 and reads therein that themode of transmission associated with the terminal of the contact 2 isthe first mode of transmission, and remains in the default mode oftransmission: the first mode of transmission MT1 for the sending of themessage destined for the terminal of the contact 2.

In particular, the device for communicating messages 11 comprises atransmitter of messages on a first network 10 ₁ and a transmitter ofmessages on a second network 10 ₂.

Another subject of the invention is a terminal of a user 1 whichcomprises:

-   -   a device for communicating messages 11 transmitting a message        mssg via a network from among: a first network 3 ₁ and a second        network 3 ₂; and    -   a controller 12 triggering cmd, on receipt of a notification        tc_cnx1_ntf to the terminal of the user 1 of connection to the        first network of the terminal of the contact originating from a        messaging server 4 on the first network 3 ₁, a toggling of the        terminal of the user 1 into a first mode of transmission MT1 for        a terminal of a contact 2, when the terminal of the user 1 is in        a second mode of transmission MT2 for the terminal of the        contact 2.

Thus, the controller 12 is either implemented directly in the terminalof the user 1 or in the device for communicating messages 11 asdescribed hereinabove.

In particular, the device for communicating messages 11 comprises aswitch 111 making it possible to provide a message to a firsttransmitter 10 ₁, that is to say a transmitter on a first network, or asecond transmitter 10 ₂, that is to say a transmitter on a secondnetwork, as a function of the mode of transmission of the switch 111,respectively the first mode of transmission MT1 or the second mode oftransmission MT2. The controller 12 then commands cmd, on receipt of anotification tc_cnx1_ntf of connection to the first network of theterminal of the contact, the toggling of the switch 111 into a firstmode of transmission MT1 when sending a message destined for theterminal of the contact 2. Optionally, the terminal of the user 1 or thedevice for communicating messages 11 of the terminal of the user 1comprises a contact database 12 (not illustrated) such as describedpreviously. In particular, the terminal of the user 1 comprises atransmitter of messages on a first network 10 ₁ and a transmitter ofmessages on a second network 10 ₂ either implemented directly in theterminal of the user 1 or in the communication device 11 of the terminalof the user 1.

The communication architecture comprises in addition to:

-   -   a terminal 1 of a user U,    -   a terminal 2 of a contact C, and    -   two communication networks 3 ₁ and 3 ₂, each making it possible        to transmit messages between the terminal of the user 1 and the        terminal of the contact 2 when they are connected to the        network,    -   at least one messaging server 4 on the first network 31.

The messaging server 4 of a first network 3 ₁ comprises a sender 400 ₁making it possible to send, when a terminal of a user 1 is in a secondmode of transmission MT2 for a terminal of a contact 2, to the terminalof the user 1 a notification of connection to the first network of theterminal of the contact 8.tc_cnx 1_ntf, the notification of connection8.tc_cnx 1_ntf triggering 9.cmd a toggling of the terminal of the user 1into a first mode of transmission MT1 for the terminal of the contact 2.In particular, the messaging server 4 comprises a detector 430 ofconnection to the first network of a terminal of a contact triggering asending by the sender 400 ₁ of the notification of connection 8.tc_cnx1_ntf. In particular, the detector 430 of connection to the firstnetwork of the terminal of the contact TC_CNX1_DTCT comprises a detector4301 (not illustrated) of a message 4.mssg originating from the terminalof the contact 2 via the first network 3 ₁. In particular, the detector430 of connection to the first network of the terminal of the contactcomprises a detector 4302 (not illustrated) of a reception by themessaging server 4 of a control message for deleting a message stored onthe messaging server 4′.revoke_mssg, the control message 4′.revoke_mssgoriginating from the terminal of the contact TC.

In particular, the messaging server 4 comprises a generator 42 of anotification of connection to the first network of a terminal of acontact 5.tc_cnx 1_ntf of a terminal of a user 1. The generator 42 isimplemented when a terminal of a user 1 is in a second mode oftransmission MT2 for a terminal of a contact 2. The generator 42 of thenotification of connection provides the notification of connectiongenerated 5.tc_cnx 1_ntf to the sender 400 ₁ so as to be transmitted tothe terminal of the user TU.

In particular, the generator 42 of notification of connection istriggered by a detector of an event relating to a connection to thefirst network N1 of the terminal of the contact TC from among:

-   -   a detector 430 of connection to the first network of the        terminal of the contact 2;    -   a detector of disconnection from the first network of the        terminal of the contact (not illustrated);    -   a detector 41 of the toggling into a second mode of transmission        MT2 of the terminal of the user 1 for the terminal of the        contact 2, for example a detector of receipt of a message        1.revoke(mssg _(TC)) of revocation of a message of the terminal        of the user destined for the terminal of the contact.

The detector 430 of connection to the first network of the terminal ofthe contact makes it possible to detect an event relating to a firstconnection or a reconnection of the terminal of the contact TC to thefirst network such as:

-   -   A sending of a message 4.mssg on the first network by the        terminal of the contact to a terminal of an interlocutor of the        contact;    -   A sending of a message of connection to the first network N1 by        the terminal of the contact, in particular a registration        message such as SIP REGISTER, when the terminal of the user 1        and the terminal of the contact 2 share the same messaging        server 4;    -   A sending of a message of deletion 4′.revoke_mssg of a message        sent by the terminal of the contact 2 to the terminal of the        user TU on the first network 3 ₁; etc.

In particular, the messaging server 4 comprises a provider 401 of thenotification of connection to the sender on the first network 400 ₁activated as a function of a state of connection to the first network ofthe terminal of the user 1.

In the example illustrated, the sender to the terminal of the user 40comprises the sender on the first network 400 ₁ and a provider 401 ofthe notification of connection to the sender on the first network 400 ₁activated as a function of a state of connection to the first network ofthe terminal of the user 1. Thus, the sender of the notification to theterminal of the user 40 (not illustrated) is activated as a function ofa state of connection to the first network of the terminal of the user1. The sender on the first network 400 ₁ transmits the notificationtc_cnx1_ntf when the terminal of the user 1 is in a second mode oftransmission MT2 for the terminal of the contact 2. In particular, themessaging server 4 receives from the terminal of the user 1 an item ofinformation, such as a revocation message 1.revoke(mssg _(TC)),indicating the toggling of the terminal of the user TU into the secondmode of transmission MT2 for the terminal of the contact TC.

Alternatively, the messaging server 4 determines whether the terminal ofthe user 1 is in a second mode of transmission MT2 for the terminal ofthe contact 2. In particular, the messaging server 4 comprises adetector 41 of the toggling of the terminal of the user into the secondmode of transmission. For example, the detector 41 of the toggling intothe second mode of transmission comprises a detector of the messages ofrevocation or of deletion of the stored messages originating from theterminal of the user 1. Thus, the detector 41 determining a togglinginto the second of transmission MT2 of a terminal of a user 1 for aterminal of a contact 2: receipt of a toggling information item,detection of the toggling triggers 2.trg(MT2 _(TC)) an monitor of thefirst network 43 (not illustrated) triggering a sending by the sender onthe first network 400 ₁ of a notification of connection to the firstnetwork of the terminal of the contact 8.tc_cnx 1_ntf. This monitor ofthe first network 43 comprises at least one detector 430 of connectionof the terminal of the contact to the first network.

In particular, the detector 41 of the toggling into the second mode oftransmission MT2 of a terminal of a user 1 for a terminal of a contact2: receipt of a toggling information item, detection of the togglingtriggers 2.trg(MT2 _(TC)) the generator 42 of notification ofconnection, which itself triggers 3 b.dtdt_trg the detector 430 ofconnection of the terminal of the contact to the first network. In thiscase, it is the detector 430 of connection of the terminal of thecontact to the first network which directly or indirectly triggers7.snd_trg the transmission by the sender on the first network 400 ₁ tothe terminal of the user 1 of the notification 8.tc_cnx 1_ntf providedby the generator 42 of notification of connection. Alternatively, thedetector 41 determining a toggling into the second of transmission MT2of a terminal of a user 1 for a terminal of a contact 2: receipt of atoggling information item, detection of the toggling triggers 2.trg(MT2_(TC)) the detector 430 of connection of the terminal of the contact tothe first network, which itself triggers 3 a. ntf_trg the generator 42of notification of connection. In this case, it is the generator 42 ofnotification of connection which provides the notification of connection5.tc_cnx 1_ntf and directly or indirectly triggers 7.snd_trg thetransmission by the sender on the first network 400 ₁ to the terminal ofthe user 1 of the notification 8.tc_cnx 1_ntf.

In the case of an indirect triggering 7.snd_trg of the sender on thefirst network 400 ₁, it is the sender to a terminal of a user 401 whichis triggered 7.snd_trg directly either by the detector 430 ofconnection, or by the generator 42 of notification of connection, or bythe monitor of the first network 43. In particular, the sender to theterminal of the user 40 comprises the sender on the first network 400 ₁of the notification of connection tc_cnx1_ntf to the terminal of theuser 1. Optionally, the sender to the terminal of the user 40 comprises,furthermore, a connection analyzer 401 verifying the connection of theterminal of the user to the first network. If the connection of theterminal of the user to the first network is verified, that is to say ifthe terminal of the user 1 is connected to the first network 3 ₁, thenthe analyzer 401 triggers the transmission by the sender on the firstnetwork 400 ₁ to the terminal of the user 1 of the notification ofconnection tc_cnx1_ntf provided by the generator 42 of notification ofconnection, in particular by providing to the sender on the firstnetwork 400 ₁ the notification of connection 8.tc_cnx 1_ntf. If theconnection of the terminal of the user to the first network is notverified, that is to say if the terminal of the user 1 is not connectedto the first network 3 ₁, then the analyzer 401 triggers a detector ofconnection of the terminal of the user to the first network. Inparticular, either the sender to the terminal of the user 40, or themonitor of the first network 43 (as illustrated by FIG. 4) comprises thedetector 430 of connection of the terminal of the user to the firstnetwork. The detector 430 of connection of the terminal of the user tothe first network triggers 7.snd_trg the provision by the analyzer 401to the sender on the first network 400 ₁ of the notification ofconnection 8.tc_cnx 1_ntf provided by the generator 42 of notificationof connection, which then transmits it to the terminal of the user 1. Inparticular, the monitor 43 of the first network also comprises theanalyzer 401 and the detector 430 of connection of the terminal of theuser to the first network. In the example illustrated by FIG. 4, one andthe same detector 430 is used by the messaging server to detect theconnection to the first network 3 ₁ of the terminal of the user 1 and ofthe terminal of the contact 2. This is possible in particular when theterminal of the user 1 and the terminal of the contact 2 share the samemessaging server 4. Optionally, the messaging server 4 can comprisedistinct detectors of connection to the first network which differ forthe terminal of the user and the terminal of the contact (notillustrated). In particular, when the messaging server 4 is themessaging server of the terminal of the user 1 and the terminal of thecontact 2 has at its disposal another messaging server on the firstnetwork 3 ₁, the messaging server 4 can comprise two distinct detectorsof connection to the first network. The advantage is that the detectorof connection of the terminal of the user can comprise a simple monitorof the messages of registration of the terminal of the user received bythe messaging server, whilst the detector of connection of the terminalof the contact will comprise a detector of all the messages originatingfrom the terminal of the contact received by the messaging server 4 ofthe terminal of the user: message useful to a terminal of aninterlocutor (not illustrated) sharing with the terminal of the user themessaging server 4, message of revocation of a message stored on themessaging server 4, etc.

FIG. 5 illustrates a message exchange chart in the case where theterminal of the user is disconnected from the first network when theterminal of a contact reconnects to the first network, according to theinvention. FIG. 5 deals again with the case of usage of FIG. 1b but withthe implementation of the invention. Thus, the terminal of the user TUsends to the terminal of a contact TC a first message mssg1 on a defaultnetwork: the first network, snd1_(mssg 1).

The terminal of the contact TC not being connected to the first network:TC≠cnx₁, the messaging server of the terminal of the contact SM_(c)receives the first message mssg1 and stores it in particular in atemporary memory or a message database BDD_MSSG with a view totransferring it to the terminal of the contact when it becomes connectedagain to the first network. The terminal of the user TU then triggers acountdown of a predetermined time span on the expiry of which, if thefirst message mssg1 has not been transmitted by the messaging serverSM_(c) to the terminal of the contact TC, the terminal of the user TUsends a revocation of the transfer of the first message to the messagingserver SM_(c): Revoke(mssg1). Thus, the first message mssg1 is deletedfrom the memory BDD_MSSG of the messaging server SM_(c). Concomitantly,the terminal of the user TU toggles into a second mode of transmissionfor the terminal of the contact MT(tc)=MT2, and then retransmits thefirst message via the second network (this time): send2(mssg 1), in thisinstance in SMS form. When the terminal of the user TU sends a secondmessage mssg2 destined for the terminal of the contact TC, it still doesso on the second network: send2(mssg 2) since the terminal of the useris still in the second mode of transmission for the terminal of thecontact MT(tc)=MT2.

After the terminal of the contact has reconnected to the first networkTC=cnx₁, it sends on the default network, namely the first network, athird message to the terminal of the user TU: snd1(mssg 3). If at thatmoment, the terminal of the user TU is disconnected from the firstnetwork TU≠cnx1, then the third message will not be remitted to theterminal of the user TU via the first network. The terminal of the userTU not being connected to the first network: TU≠cnx₁, the messagingserver of the terminal of the user SM_(U) receives the third messagemssg3 and stores it in particular in a temporary memory or a messagedatabase BDD_MSSG with a view to transferring it to the terminal of theuser TU when it becomes connected again to the first network. Theterminal of the contact TC then triggers a countdown of a predeterminedtime span on the expiry of which, if the third message mssg3 has notbeen transmitted by the messaging server SM_(U) to the terminal of theuser TU, the terminal of the contact TC sends a revocation of thetransfer of the third message to the messaging server SM_(U):Revoke(mssg3). Thus, the third message mssg3 is deleted from the memoryBDD_MSSG of the messaging server SM_(U). Concomitantly, the terminal ofthe contact TC toggles into a second mode of transmission for theterminal of the user MT(tu)=MT2, and then retransmits the third messagevia the second network (this time): send2(mssg 3), in this instance inSMS form.

If, the terminal of the user TU retrieves its coverage by the firstnetwork, that is to say if it is again connected to the first network,then the terminal TU sends, for example, a message of registration onthe first network reg to the messaging server SM_(U). Then, the methodfor managing messages according to the invention then transmits SND tothe terminal of the user TU a notification tc_cnx1_nft indicating thatthe terminal of the contact to retrieve its connection. The method,illustrated by FIG. 5, for managing messages according to the inventioncomprises a detection of the connection of the terminal of the contactto the first network, in particular by detection either of a messagemssg3 of the terminal of the contact TC to the terminal of the user TUvia the first network Ni, or of the revocation message revoke(mssg3)revoking this message mssg3, and, subsequent to this detection, asending SND of a notification tc_cnx1_nft of connection to the firstnetwork of the terminal of the contact conditioned by a detection ofconnection to the first network of the terminal of the user, in thisinstance by reception of a registration message reg. The terminal of theuser TU will then activate a return to the first mode of transmission,in the case of the RCS standard a return to “Chat”, that is to say toinstant messaging over IP, and will transmit a fourth message by usingthe first network: send1(mssg 4) since both terminals: the terminal ofthe user TU and the terminal of the contact TC are connected to thefirst network. Next, the terminal of the contact TC (which had itselftoggled into a second mode of transmission MT2 for the terminal of theuser TU) receiving this fourth message mssg 4 of the terminal of theuser TU on the first network will toggle, as provided for by the RCSstandard, into the first mode of transmission so as to continue theconversation on the first network by transmitting a fifth messagesnd1(mssg 5).

In this example, it is the knowledge by the messaging server SM_(U) ofthe terminal of the user of the state of connectivity on the firstnetwork of the terminal of the contact TC and of the terminal of theuser TU which brings about the remitting of the notification ofconnection tc_cnx1_ntf to the terminal of the user TU. In this instance,it is respectively the detection of a message from the terminal of thecontact to the terminal of the user or the receipt of the revocationmessage, that is to say the receipt of the command for erasure of amessage of the “Store&Forward” function of the RCS standard, originatingfrom the terminal of the contact TC and the receipt of the message ofregistration of the terminal of the user to the first network, whichtriggers the sending by the messaging server SM_(U) to the terminal ofthe user TU of a notification triggering the return of the terminal ofthe user TU to the default mode of transmission for its messageexchanges with the terminal of the contact TC.

FIG. 6 illustrates a message exchange chart in the case where themessaging server of the terminal of the user detects a message on thefirst network of the terminal of a contact, according to the invention.The terminal of the user TU sends to the terminal of a contact TC afirst message mssg1 on a default network: the first network, snd1(mssg1). The terminal of the contact TC not being connected to the firstnetwork: TC≠cnx₁, the messaging server of the terminal of the contactSM_(c) receives the first message mssg1 and stores it in particular in atemporary memory or a message database BDD_MSSG with a view totransferring it to the terminal of the contact when it becomes connectedagain to the first network. The terminal of the user TU then triggers acountdown of a predetermined time span on the expiry of which, if thefirst message mssg1 has not been transmitted by the messaging serverSM_(c) to the terminal of the contact TC, the terminal of the user TUsends a revocation of the transfer of the first message to the messagingserver SM_(c): Revoke(mssg1). Thus, the first message mssg1 is deletedfrom the memory BDD_MSSG of the messaging server SM_(c). Concomitantly,the terminal of the user TU toggles into a second mode of transmissionfor the terminal of the contact MT(tc)=MT2, and then retransmits thefirst message via the second network (this time): send2(mssg 1), in thisinstance in SMS form. When the terminal of the user TU sends a secondmessage mssg2 destined for the terminal of the contact TC, it still doesso on the second network: send2(mssg 2) since the terminal of the useris still in the second mode of transmission for the terminal of thecontact MT(tc)=MT2. If the terminal of the contact TC then retrieves theconnection to the first network: TC≠cnx₁, it can send snd1(mssg 3) onthe first network a third message destined for a terminal of aninterlocutor TCC different from the terminal of the user TU. If theterminal of the interlocutor TCC and the terminal of the user TU sharesthe same messaging server SM_(U), then the messaging server can detectthe connection to the first network of the terminal of the contact TCupon this third message mssg3 and not wait for the reception by theterminal of the user TU of a message of the terminal of the contact TCvia the first network as illustrated by the FIG. 1 b. The messagingserver server SM_(U) detecting the connection to the first network ofthe terminal of the contact TC, sends SND a notification tc_cnx1_ntf tothe terminal of the user TU. The terminal of the user TU then togglesinto the default mode of transmission, that is to say transmission onthe first network, and can, henceforth, send snd1(mssg 4) a fourthmessage to the terminal of the contact on the first network.

Consequently, FIG. 6 shows that the notification of connection makes itpossible to revert as early as possible to the default network for theexchanges of messages.

The invention also envisages a medium. The information medium may be anyentity or device capable of storing the program. For example, the mediumcan comprise a storage means, such as a ROM, for example a CD ROM or amicroelectronic circuit ROM or else a magnetic recording means, forexample a diskette or a hard disk. Moreover, the information medium canbe a transmissible medium such as an electrical or optical signal whichcan be conveyed via an electrical or optical cable, by radio or by othermeans. The program according to the invention can be in particulardownloaded over a network in particular of Internet type.

Alternatively, the information medium can be an integrated circuit intowhich the program is incorporated, the circuit being adapted to executeor to be used in the execution of the method in question.

In another implementation, the invention is implemented by means ofsoftware components and/or hardware components. In this regard the termmodule can correspond equally well to a software component or to ahardware component. A software component corresponds to one or morecomputer programs, one or more subprograms of a program, or moregenerally to any element of a program or of a piece of software able toimplement a function or a function set according to the descriptionhereinbelow. A hardware component corresponds to any element of ahardware assembly able to implement a function or a set of functions.

1. A method of exchanging messages implemented by a user terminal configured to transmit a message via one of a first network and a second network, the method of exchanging messages comprising, when the user terminal is in a second mode of transmission for a contact terminal: receiving a notification to the user terminal of connection to the first network of the contact terminal originating from a messaging server on the first network; and triggering of toggling of the user terminal into a first mode of transmission for the contact terminal.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein triggering the toggling is performed subsequent to a detection, by the messaging server, of connection of the contact terminal to the first network.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the first network is a data network and the second network a circuit network.
 4. A communication device for communicating messages of a user terminal, the communication device configured to transmit a message via one of a first network and a second network, the communication device comprising a controller configured to trigger, on receipt of a notification to the user terminal of connection to the first network of a contact terminal originating from a messaging server on the first network, a toggling of the user terminal of the user into a first mode of transmission for the contact terminal, when the user terminal is in a second mode of transmission for the contact terminal.
 5. A user terminal comprising a device for communicating messages configured to transmit a message via one of a first network and a second network, the user terminal comprising a controller configured to trigger, on receipt of a notification to the user terminal of connection to the first network of a contact terminal originating from a messaging server on the first network, a toggling of the user terminal into a first mode of transmission for the contact terminal, when the user terminal is in a second mode of transmission for the contact terminal.
 6. A method of managing messages implemented by a messaging server on a first network, the method of managing messages comprising, when a user terminal is in a second mode of transmission for a contact terminal, sending to the user terminal of a notification of connection to the first network of the contact terminal, the notification of connection triggering a toggling of the user terminal into a first mode of transmission for the contact terminal.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the method for managing messages further comprises, when a user terminal is in a second mode of transmission for a contact terminal, detecting a connection to the first network of the contact terminal, subsequent to which the sending of the notification of connection is performed.
 8. The method of claim 7, wherein detecting a connection to the first network of the contact terminal comprises detecting a message originating from the contact terminal via the first network.
 9. The method of claim 7, wherein detecting a connection to the first network of the contact terminal comprises detecting a reception by the messaging server of a control message for deleting a message stored on the messaging server, the control message originating from the contact terminal.
 10. The method of claim 6, wherein the method of managing messages comprises, when a terminal of a user is in a second mode of transmission for a terminal of a contact, a generation of a notification of connection to the first network of a terminal of a contact of a terminal of a user, the generation of the notification of connection providing the notification of connection generated on the sending to the terminal of the user.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the generation of notification of connection is triggered by an event relating to a connection to the first network of the contact terminal from among: the detection of connection to the first network of the contact terminal; and a toggling into a second mode of transmission of the user terminal for the contact terminal.
 12. The method of claim 10, wherein an implementation of the sending of the notification is dependent on a state of connection to the first network of the user terminal.
 13. A non-transitory, computer-readable medium having stored thereon instructions which when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform the method of claim
 1. 14. A messaging server of a first network comprising a sender making it possible to send, when a user terminal is in a second mode of transmission for a contact terminal, to the user terminal a notification of connection to the first network of the contact terminal, the notification of connection triggering a toggling of the user terminal into a first mode of transmission for the contact terminal.
 15. The messaging server of claim 14, wherein the messaging server comprises a detector of connection to the first network of a contact terminal configured to trigger a sending by the sender of the notification of connection.
 16. The method of claim 1, wherein the first network is a network of a first type and the second network is a network of a second type. 